What is a California Registered Agent?
A California registered agent is legally required. The agent must have a physical address in California and be present during business hours to receive legal documents. Additionally, a registered agent is required to have a physical address in California, and this office must be kept open throughout the year during regular business hours. This ensures that certified mail can be delivered in a reasonable time frame.
Importance of a California Registered Agent
The California Secretary of State may also use your Registered Agent’s address as your LLC’s “point of contact” for official notices sent to your business. You need a California Registered Agent because the law requires it (as per Section 17701.13 of the California LLC Act). This means that all LLCs in the state must have a Registered Agent in order to operate legally. A registered agent acts as your business’s main point of contact with the Secretary of State and will be responsible for receiving important tax notifications and compliance information.
Can I be my own LLC registered agent in California?
You can be your own Registered Agent in California as long as you meet the state requirements. To be your own LLC Registered Agent, you need to have a physical address in California. PO Boxes are not allowed. The registered agent plays a critical role in ensuring that the California LLC is properly notified of any legal actions or proceedings and can help ensure that the LLC stays in compliance with state regulations.
Legal Requirements for Registered Agents in California
Per state statutes (CA Corp Code § 1700-1702), registered agents are legally required in California. At a minimum, your registered agent must list a physical address on the public record and be present at that address during business hours. The California Corporation Code Section § 1700-1702 requires that all corporations, LLCs, and other business entities appoint and maintain a registered agent. The only difference is the commercial registered agent has a Commercial Registered Agent Listing with the Secretary of State, and the noncommercial registered agent does not. The requirements for an entity to have a registered agent are formed under California Corporations Code 17701.13 (LLC) and 1505 (corporation), which mandate that registered entities will have and continuously maintain a registered agent and office within the state. Any physical address in the state may be used, but PO Boxes and mail drop services are not acceptable since someone has to be available to sign for documents.